Indonesian party backs asset forfeiture bill but warns of misuse

The Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) backs the proposed Asset Forfeiture Bill, seeing it as a vital tool in the fight against corruption. Hasto Kristiyanto, the party's Secretary-General, stated that the anti-corruption spirit is deeply ingrained in PDIP's history and its commitment to eradicating collusion, corruption, and nepotism.

"We, PDI Perjuangan, as a party whose legacy originates from the spirit of anti-KKN (corruption, collusion, nepotism) against Soeharto, the spirit of anti-oppression, are at the forefront of promoting anti-corruption programs, including the Asset Forfeiture Law which is also pushed by PDI Perjuangan," Kristiyanto said.

However, Kristiyanto also voiced concerns about the potential for abuse of the law's extensive powers. He stressed the importance of robust oversight mechanisms for law enforcement agencies. "But we must also see the reality, that when there is such a powerful law, the oversight function of law enforcement officials does not work well, then that law can also be misused as a tool of power," he warned.

Kristiyanto pointed to the case of a former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes, Febrie Adriansyah, whose home reportedly contained significant amounts of gold and wealth. He questioned whether this indicated an abuse of legal power, arguing that laws alone cannot solve everything. The PDIP leader emphasized the need for a collective commitment from all state institutions and the public, including political parties, religious leaders, and civil society, to effectively combat corruption from its roots.

PDIP has conducted studies and prepared proposals for its faction in the House of Representatives (DPR RI) regarding the Asset Forfeiture Bill. A key focus is establishing control mechanisms to prevent the misuse of authority, drawing lessons from cases involving alleged corruption among law enforcement officials, judges, prosecutors, police, and politicians. The party aims to ensure a comprehensive approach to tackling corruption.